Historic Synchronization Test of the West African Power Grid: A Major Milestone Achieved by WAPP

The West African Power Pool (WAPP), under the leadership of its Secretary General, Mr. Abdoulaye DIA, and in collaboration with the Transmission System Operators (TSOs) of its member utilities, has successfully conducted a historic synchronization test of the West African power grid.

Coordinated from the Information and Coordination Center (ICC) in Calavi, Benin, this landmark test represents a major step forward in regional energy integration. For the first time ever, the power grids of all West African countries were synchronously connected within a single network for four continuous hours, confirming the technical feasibility of coordinated operation across the entire region.

This success, the result of years of preparation, cooperation, and technical innovation, clearly demonstrates the tangible benefits of interconnection: including reserve sharing, improved system stability, and enhanced energy security.

It marks a key milestone toward the establishment of the West African Regional Electricity Market, aimed at harmonizing national power grids, facilitating real-time energy exchanges, and promoting a competitive, integrated electricity market for the benefit of all member states.

Building on this achievement, WAPP now envisions achieving permanent synchronization of all 15 concerned countries by the end of June 2026.

WAPP also extends its deep appreciation to all technical, financial and institutional partners, and pays tribute to the pioneers (power system experts, consultants and suppliers) whose dedication over nearly a decade made this milestone possible.

On the path toward the West African Regional Electricity Market!